Patricio Pitbull has had a dominant career, reigning as Bellator featherweight champion for many years and even capturing the lightweight title by defeating Michael Chandler. He also holds a notable victory over RIZIN champion Kleber Koike.
Now, with Pitbull poised to compete in the UFC, his Pitbull Brothers teammate Leandro Higo is highly confident in his ability to shine on the sport`s biggest stage.
Both Higo and Pitbull are scheduled to compete during the same week in Florida. Higo is making his PFL debut in the main event of PFL 2 in Orlando on April 11th, facing Marcirley Alves who stepped in as a late replacement. Pitbull enters the UFC octagon for the first time the following night, battling Yair Rodriguez at UFC 314.
Higo firmly believes Pitbull will become a UFC champion. He points to the successful track record of other former Bellator fighters who have transitioned to the UFC. Higo noted that most Bellator transfers, including Michael Chandler who has performed well and Eddie Alvarez who became a champion, have done successfully, with Will Brooks being an exception. Higo is convinced Patricio possesses all the necessary qualities to become champion, starting with a significant opening bout.
The UFC featherweight belt will be contested in the main event of UFC 314 in Miami, featuring former titleholder Alexander Volkanovski against rising sensation Diego Lopes.
According to Higo, a strong performance from Pitbull could potentially position him as the next challenger in the competitive 145-pound division.
Higo reiterated his strong belief, stating that Pitbull “has everything to become champion” and is “the best in the world,” noting he trains alongside fellow champions.
Due to their upcoming fight schedules, Higo and Pitbull had to split their training camps, preparing about 230 miles apart in Florida during their final days before competition. Despite this, Higo plans on driving to Miami the day after his own fight to be present for Pitbull`s highly anticipated first walk to the UFC octagon.
Higo anticipates a quick night for his teammate, stating, “I believe he knocks him out.”
For his own PFL debut on Friday, Higo faces his second short-notice opponent. Josh Rettinghouse was initially scheduled to replace Magomed Magomedov but was not medically cleared on fight week, leading to Marcirley Alves stepping in on the morning of the weigh-ins. Higo aims to secure the crucial first victory on his path towards the $500,000 grand prize in the PFL bantamweight tournament.
Higo acknowledges the frequent changes in opponents but views overcoming such adversities as essential for a champion. He noted the unfortunate situation of fighting a fellow Brazilian after both their original opponents had issues, but sees it as a professional obligation. Higo emphasizes that this bout is his initial step in the tournament, and he is focused on getting the first win, followed by the second, the third, and ultimately claiming the half-million dollar prize.
Percy Harlow